Bangkok: Fuel prices are soaring, leading to an increase in fares, but the government is ordering price freezes to help people return home for Songkran. The Ministry of Transport has instructed the Land Transport Department and the Transport Co., Ltd. to work together to regulate bus fares to ensure public confidence in traveling back to their hometowns during the Songkran festival.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Thitipat Thaijongrak, Director of the Automotive Engineering Division and spokesperson for the Department of Land Transport, revealed that the situation in the Middle East has severely impacted oil prices, especially diesel, which is a major transportation cost. Fuel costs account for as much as 45% of total vehicle operating costs. As a result of the current fuel price volatility, public bus operators have reduced their routes by up to 20% compared to normal circumstances. This reduction directly affects the public who rely on bus services, particularly as the Songkran festival approaches, when many people are preparing to travel back to their hometowns.
To address the fluctuating fuel prices, the Central Land Transport Control Committee resolved to adjust fare prices, effective from April 6, 2026. For large buses in categories 2 and 3, fares will increase by 5 satang per kilometer per seat, while public vans and minibuses will see a fare increase of 2 satang per kilometer per seat. New category 4 buses in Bangkok will have a fare increase of 1 baht per seat, and older vehicles will see an increase of 2 baht per seat. For intercity buses in categories 1 and 4, the Provincial Land Transport Control Committee will consider fare increases based on a calculation formula reflecting actual cost structure factors.
The fare increase calculation formula incorporates real cost structure factors, including the Consumer Price Index (CPI), the Energy Index, and labor wages, to ensure fairness for operators. This new pricing structure will be updated monthly. If energy prices return to normal, fares will be reduced accordingly.
The Ministry of Transport has also assigned the Department of Land Transport and the Transport Company Limited to implement a project to promote public transportation and prevent accidents during the Songkran festival in 2026. This involves freezing fares for passengers traveling on Transport Company Limited buses and partner companies operating on routes in categories 2 and 3 from April 6th to 19th, 2026. Passengers who have already purchased tickets can travel at their original fares without additional charges, aiming to provide convenient and safe public transportation and reduce travel expenses.
For freight transportation, a "Diesel Fuel-Based Transport Freight Cost Index (DFCI)" will be developed to reflect changes in road freight costs that vary with fuel prices, aiding road transport operators in negotiating freight rates with clients.
The Department of Land Transport expresses its gratitude to transport operators for their cooperation in ensuring smooth bus operations during the Songkran festival. The Department pledges to manage and regulate fares fairly to protect public interests. It has coordinated with PTT Oil and Retail Public Company Limited (OR) to prepare fuel stations and reserves to meet demand, alleviating hardship for operators and supporting their ability to provide smooth transportation services.